After all the hype, speculation, and rumors we've finally got a release date for Star Wars: The Old Republic. And it's in 2011.

The highly anticipated MMORPG, Star Wars: The Old Republic, will be releasing December 20, 2011 in North America, and December 22, 2011 in European territories.

With the announcement of Star Wars: The Old Republic launch date, comes two brand new trailers highlighting the combat in The Old Republic, along with the revamped companion system.

Companion Characters
Companions fight alongside players in battle against AI and other players in Open World PvP, aid in crafting and non-combat missions through Crew Skills, and provide commentary on environments and engage in conversations.

As you advance your story in Star Wars: The Old Republic, you build relationships with your companion characters based on the decisions you make throughout the game. How you treat each companion and how you act when they are in your presence determines how your relationship with them evolves.

Changes to the Companion System were recently revealed, and include more customizations and companion specific class/roles. Check out the full details behind the companion changes.

Combat in Star Wars: The Old Republic
Combat is a integral part of the Star Wars experience. BioWare hopes to take combat in MMOs to the next level with Star Wars: The Old Republic. In this trailer, BioWare explains the quick-paced, exciting combat in The Old Republic, highlighting the many different abilities and weapons available to each class. In addition, they also focus on the combat strategy of each class. Of course, taking place in the Star Wars universe, we should expect a ton of cool gizmos and gadgets.